Kwan Yin (sometimes transliterated as Quan Jin) -- which means "observing the cries of the world" -- is the Chinese Bodhisattva of compassion. She is the personification of kindness and mercy, the Mother Goddess and patron of travelers.

She is generally seen as a source of unconditional love. In her bodhisattva vows, Kwan Yin promises to answer the cries and pleas of all beings -- people and animals alike -- and to liberate them from their own karmic woes. Therefore, this Mother of the World is a champion of animal lovers, vegetarians and vegans.

She has also been a symbol for equality, said to be the first female to achieve Enlightenment.

The knots above the goddess take the shape of a pine tree, sacred to Buddhists for their strength and longevity.